Cantonese sweet and sour pork is a beloved dish that captures the essence of Chinese cuisine with its vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors. This dish is known for its balance of sweet and tangy tastes, complemented by crispy pork and fresh vegetables. Here’s a concise recipe to guide you through preparing this classic dish at home.
Ingredients
Pork: 500g of pork tenderloin, cut into bitesized pieces
Marinade:
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or rice wine)
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Batter:
1 cup allpurpose flour
1 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup cold water
Sauce:
4 tablespoons ketchup
3 tablespoons white vinegar
3 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Vegetables:
1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
1 onion, diced
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
Oil: For deep frying
Garnish: Chopped green onions (optional)
Method
1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, combine pork pieces with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Batter: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and cold water until you have a smooth batter.
3. Fry the Pork: Heat oil in a deep pan over mediumhigh heat. Dip marinated pork pieces into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, and carefully lower them into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 57 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the sauce begins to thickens slightly.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large wok, add a splash of oil and stirfry the diced bell pepper and onion for 23 minutes. Add the pineapple chunks and continue to cook for another minute.
6. Add Pork and Sauce: Toss the crispy pork into the wok and pour the sweet and sour sauce over it. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly.
7. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice for a delightful meal.
Conclusion
Cantonese sweet and sour pork is an irresistible dish that balances flavors and textures, making it a favorite in many households. With easytofollow steps and straightforward ingredients, you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful tastes of Cantonese cuisine!